Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

A patient on amiodarone therapy should be monitored for which long-term complication?

1. Tachyarrhythmias

2. Renal insufficiency

3. Pulmonary fibrosis

4. Hyperkalemia

The correct answer is: Pulmonary fibrosis

Monitoring a patient on amiodarone therapy for long-term complications is crucial due to the known adverse effects of this medication. Among the various possible complications, pulmonary fibrosis is a significant concern. Amiodarone has a well-documented association with lung toxicity, which can manifest as pulmonary fibrosis, a form of lung scarring that may lead to respiratory failure. This complication often develops after prolonged exposure to the drug and can result in significant morbidity. Patients receiving amiodarone may report symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, or pleuritic pain, which necessitate further evaluation, including imaging studies like a chest X-ray or CT scan. It is important to conduct regular assessments and respiratory function tests in these patients to ensure early detection of any lung-related issues induced by the drug, allowing for timely intervention if needed. In contrast, while tachyarrhythmias, renal insufficiency, and hyperkalemia can be concerns in patients on various cardiac medications, they are not specifically associated with the long-term use of amiodarone to the same extent as pulmonary fibrosis. Amiodarone's potential to cause extensive lung damage underscores the necessity of careful monitoring of respiratory status during therapy.